Apple is preparing for a particularly active year in the smart home sector. Several new products are planned for this year and 2026, expanding the existing offerings and opening up entirely new categories. In addition to updated versions of well-known devices like the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini, new hardware is also planned that will put Apple more firmly in the competition for the connected home.
Apple has been rather reserved in the smart home segment in recent years, largely leaving the market to third-party providers. This appears to be changing with its upcoming products. The company is apparently focusing on more closely integrating its devices with Apple Intelligence to make the smart home smarter, more secure, and more convenient. In addition to improved versions of existing products, devices with displays and proprietary security solutions are also expected for the first time.
New Apple TV 4K: more power and AI support
The new Apple TV 4K is expected to be unveiled soon. It is expected to feature the A17 Pro chip, replacing the previous A15 Bionic. This will give the device significantly more performance and, for the first time, will be optimized for Apple Intelligence, the company's new AI platform. It will also include the N1 wireless chip, which ensures faster and more stable connections between Apple devices. Reports suggest that the new model could also include a camera. This would be suitable for FaceTime or gesture control, for example, making the Apple TV 4K an even more central component of the smart home.
HomePod mini 2: better technology and new colors
The HomePod mini is also getting an update. The new HomePod mini 2 is expected to feature a new chip, replacing the previous S5. There will also be improvements in sound quality and new color options—possibly including red. In addition to the new N1 chip, an improved ultra-wideband chip is also expected. Both will ensure more precise and faster communication with other devices. The HomePod mini 2 will also support Apple Intelligence and the new version of Siri. The voice assistant is expected to be more context-aware and better integrated into everyday life.
HomePod Touch: the smart display with homeOS
The HomePod Touch, formerly known as the "HomePad," is expected to be a completely new product. Originally planned for March 2025, the market launch was postponed due to delays with Siri and Apple Intelligence. A launch is now expected in March or April 2026.
The HomePod Touch is expected to feature a 7-inch, almost square display and run the new homeOS operating system. This will include several pre-installed system apps, including Safari, Music, Notes, Calendar, Photos, and Reminders. Widgets play a central role, reminding you of the iPhone's standby function when it's being wirelessly charged. Particularly important is the integration of the new Siri, which is controlled via app intents and powered by AI.
This will allow Siri to take on more complex tasks in the future and respond to personal preferences. According to Mark Gurman, the HomePod Touch will cost around $350 and will be available in two versions: a model with a speaker base and a flat-mount version for walls or surfaces.
Surveillance camera: Focus on data protection and automation
In addition to its well-known devices, Apple is apparently also working on two new smart home products for the security sector. One of these is a surveillance camera that, according to a Bloomberg report, is said to be heavily focused on privacy. The camera will use facial recognition and infrared sensors to detect people in rooms. This can trigger intelligent automations – such as turning off the lights when no one is present or playing preferred music as soon as a specific person enters the room. Apple apparently plans to network multiple cameras in the home to tailor the smart home even more closely to individual users.
Video doorbell with Face ID: Security at the front door
Another new product is said to be a video doorbell with Face ID. This would mark Apple's first introduction of its well-known facial recognition technology to the smart home sector. The doorbell could connect to third-party smart locks or possibly be combined with Apple's own lock. This would automatically unlock the house as soon as an authorized person is recognized. According to Bloomberg, this would be a major step for Apple, as the company has so far relied on third-party HomeKit accessories. With its own solutions, Apple could gain a stronger presence in the smart home market and integrate the ecosystem even more closely.
Apple is reshaping the future of the smart home
With these products – Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini 2, HomePod Touch, a security camera, and a video doorbell – Apple will significantly expand its smart home offerings. While the first two devices represent classic updates, the last three mark a new direction. They demonstrate Apple's plans to take more control over the smart home experience and more closely integrate hardware, software, and AI. The coming year could herald the beginning of a new smart home era for Apple, one in which devices are not just connected to each other but actively respond to their environment and the people in them. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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